How do I identify a Heriz carpet?

Heriz carpets from northwest Persia are recognised by their bold, large-scale geometric medallions and robust structural foundations containing cotton warps. They often feature strong red fields anchored by prominent corner spandrels in contrasting cream or navy tones. These carpets were built for heavy domestic use in provincial areas, resulting in a heavier, more rigid handle compared to finer city-woven counterparts from Tabriz or Kashan.

What is a Baluch prayer rug?

Baluchi prayer rugs are smaller nomadic or village pieces produced by Baluch tribes inhabiting regions across Persia and Central Asia. They typically feature a distinct prayer arch or mihrab design woven in deep wool piles with dark red and dark blue tones contrasted against ivory highlights. These rugs reflect portable weaving traditions, frequently incorporating geometric symbols and camel hair details within the borders.

How should I care for an antique rug?

Maintain antique rugs through regular gentle vacuuming without a rotating beater brush to protect the aged wool pile and foundation threads. Professional specialist cleaning should be undertaken periodically to remove embedded grit without damaging natural dyes. Positioning the rug out of direct strong sunlight prevents fading of the madder reds and cream grounds over extended periods.

What distinguishes a Kirman Lavar rug?

Kirman Lavar rugs originate from south-central Persia and are noted for their refined weave, lower pile, and intricate floral vase or medallion compositions. They frequently employ a delicate colour palette where soft creams and muted reds dominate the pictorial field. The exceptional fineness of the knotting allows for highly detailed rendering of floral sprays and classical Persian garden motifs.